The exhibition reflects on Alan Evans' background, contacts and values as vital forces in the emergence of British artist blacksmithing from the late 1970s onwards. This is the story of a journey in which an understanding of technique, utility, and engineering together with contemporary design, creativity and innovation conceived what has been described as a ‘new visual language in hot forged metal’.

The exhibition illustrates the impact of Alan’s upbringing as a Quaker, part of the Whiteway colony, a radical Tolstoyan community near Stroud set up in 1898 and Cotswold Arts and Crafts traditions including fine metalwork designed by Ernest Gimson and made by Alfred and Norman Bucknell. Alan’s first major commission, aged 29, was for the Treasury gates, St Paul’s Cathedral in 1979-81. The St Paul’s maquette will be on show together with a range of work – practical pieces from gates to chestnut roasters as well as sculptures – by Alan and his contemporaries from Britain and the continent. There will also be work by young blacksmiths from around the UK including Cameron Pearson, graduate of Hereford College of Arts and winner of the 2025 New Designer of the Year.

Exhibition supported by Arts Council England.